The Sign Language Communication organization hosted a fundraising chili cookoff on Feb. 9.
Guests were able to try the contestants’ chili for $2.
Judges were made up of students, faculty and staff, as well as City Representatives Rachel Quintana and Eddie Holguin Jr.
A gift box from the Ramirez Pecan Farm was awarded to the first place winner, Frank Estrada, a guest competitor from Albuquerque, NM.
“The aim of the cookoff fundraising was to provide scholarships for students who are becoming American Sign Language interpreters,” said Mary Mooney, sign language club faculty adviser.
The event raised approximately
$400, according to Mooney.
Other EPCC organizations that participated in the contest were the Society for Post Cognitive Studies, Anime and Gamer Society, Psychology, Society of Culinary Arts and Pastry Arts and the Criminal Justice club.
“It was a wonderful event and a wonderful turnout. I hope to compete the next time around,” said Roger Ortega, culinary art student.
Not only were there cooks, but different kinds of artists showed their talent at the event.
EPCC art student Eduardo Uranga sculpted a chili out of a large block of ice and singers and belly dancers performed.
“I just want to say thank you [EPCC] for all your support, and I want also to thank all the Sign Language club officers and members for all their help,” said Cristina Ramirez, who is the president of the Sign Language Communication organization at EPCC.
According to Ramirez, donations came from Sam’s Club, Silva’s Supermarket, Subway, JCPenney and others. To make donations to the program contact Mary Mooney at 831-2432.
